Question
square . I Select subscript catalyst precipitant To balance a chemical equation, it is necessary to adjust the square v in front of the chemical formulas.
Answer
4.3
(229 Votes)
Willow
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
The correct answer is 'Coefficient'.
Explanation
## Step 1In a chemical equation, we have several terms that play different roles. Let's understand each one:### **Subscript**: A subscript in a chemical formula represents the number of atoms of a particular element in a molecule. Changing a subscript alters the substance's identity, which is not the goal in balancing chemical equations.## Step 2### **Catalyst**: A catalyst is a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without undergoing any permanent chemical change itself. It is not involved in the balancing of a chemical equation.## Step 3### **Precipitant**: A precipitant is a substance that causes a precipitate to form in a chemical reaction. It is not related to the balancing of chemical equations.## Step 4### **Coefficient**: In a chemical equation, a coefficient is placed in front of a compound or element to indicate the number of molecules or atoms involved in the reaction. Adjusting the coefficients is the correct method to balance a chemical equation. The goal is to ensure that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation without changing the substances themselves (as altering subscripts would).Therefore, to balance a chemical equation, it is necessary to adjust the coefficients in front of the chemical formulas.